Current weather

Subscribers would pay less through fire taxes
The subscription fees are currently a form of taxation without the benefits. Since they are not mandatory, not all property owners pay the subscription fee. The fire departments, unlike the stormwater utility, are real enterprises and actually provide a service to all Columbia County residents.

New Miss Georgia has Red Cross background
Andrea Lee Bailey began her volunteer service with the American Red Cross of Augusta eight years ago. She became a member of the chapters Speakers Bureau. ... In January 1998, Bailey completed her requirements to become a CPR instructor for the American Red Cross.

Mrs. S.C. prepares for national pageant
Managing her time and acquiring better organizational skills hManaging her time and acquiring better organizational skills have been some of the biggest benefits for Laura Kaminer in her reign as Mrs. South Carolina.ave been some of the biggest benefits for Laura Kaminer in her reign as Mrs. South Carolina.

Residents support fire service proposals
Residents voiced concerns about Columbia County's draft fire-services study Thursday morning in the first of five public meetings held to solicit public input.

Police blotter
The following accounts were taken from reports filed with the Columbia County Sheriff's Office.

Columbia County Newsmakers
Rachel M. Aderholt of North Augusta recently accepted the Sam Walton Community Scholarship. Rachel plans to attend Salem College and major in English/writing/education.

Time capsule
As reported in The Columbia News 45 years ago on Thursday, July 10, 1958.

On vacation
Ginger Ferguson of Evans writes, "My family and Ihad the pleasure of celebrating my parent's (George & Mildred Ferguson, Carmel, CA) 60th Wedding Anniversary this summer on a cruise to Alaska, June 14 through June 21.

Down to the summit
Passengers going home, leaving home, anticipating or apprehensive, lined up for seat assignments in the crowded airport. I was going home, but I wanted to stay.

Citizens must help with safety
Safe Communities was a national initiative over the past 10 years - five in Augusta - funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The money was state-administered and the Coalitions varied, but all had a similar mission: to reduce traffic injury and death through community volunteer effort.

Softball team heads for Series
The Columbia County Recreation Department Dixie Ponytails all-star softball team returned home last week from Perry, Ga., but the players had better keep their suitcases handy.

Sports briefs
The Greenbrier High School volleyball team will hold tryouts the week of July 28 at the Greenbrier Middle School gymnasium. The tryouts will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Players need a physical and proof of insurance to participate. For more information call Greenbrier coach Debbie Born at 650-6043, ext. 220.